As the popularity of new energy vehicles (NEVs) grows, so does the demand for lighter-weightand higher-performing materials, as well as more efficient production of essential components, such as battery packs. To meet this need, Covestro has collaborated with a Chinese partner todevelop the Baypreg ® STM polyurethane (PU) battery cover solution, which will be showcasedat the China Composites Expo (CCE), Asia’s largest exhibition for composite materials, fromSeptember 2 to 4 in Shanghai. Under the theme “Empower Your Composite Solutions,” Covestro’s booth will also feature PU composite innovations applicable in photovoltaics andenergy storage, construction, and infrastructure.
Baypreg ® STM employs the Spray-Transfer-Molding process, where PU resins are sprayed ontoglass fibers and molded into battery covers, enabling efficient production of compositecomponents. Developed in collaboration with Liyang Shanhu Industrial Co., Ltd., a Tier 1supplier of automotive parts and battery packs to Chinese and international OEMs, thissolution represents a significant advancement that is also cost-effective.
Solution for lighter and high-performance battery covers
This PU solution reduces battery cover weight by more than half compared to traditional steelshell materials. As a non-metallic material, the Baypreg ® battery cover inherently offers superioranti-corrosion and insulation properties, effectively preventing electric arcing. When comparedwith non-metallic options, it outperforms in terms of surface smoothness and airtightness. It alsodemonstrates high strength meeting tough requirements from OEMs.
“As the inventor of polyurethanes, Covestro brings decades of expertise in the automotiveindustry, with PU solutions enhancing both driving and riding experiences in automotive interiorsand exteriors. We can now extend this expertise to NEVs as well,” said Akhil Singhania, GlobalHead of PU Specialties at Tailored Urethanes, Covestro. “The Baypreg ® STM solutionshowcases Covestro’s ability to deeply understand evolving market needs and rapidlyinnovate cutting-edge material solutions. Our goal is to deliver lighter, more efficient, andsustainable solutions through continuous technological innovation.”
The NEV industry has witnessed rapid growth in recent years. According to the ChinaPassenger Car Association, NEV sales accounted for 51 percent of total passenger cardeliveries in China in July 2024, outnumbering those of internal combustion engine vehicles forthe first time.
Diverse applications for Covestro’s PU composites
At the CCE, Covestro will also showcase its PU composite solutions across various sectors. For instance, PU composites are widely utilized in photovoltaic (PV) modules to enhanceefficiency and quality. Specifically, PU frames combined with coatings solutions from Covestrooffer superior corrosion and weather resistance for PV modules, PU profiles excel in insulationand mechanical performance in energy storage batteries, and transparent front sheets basedon composites enable high light transmittance while demonstrating exceptional strength forsolar panels.
Additionally, in construction, PU windows and doors are ideal for nearly zero-energy buildingsdue to their excellent insulation. In infrastructure projects, PU composites are widely used inpower poles, railway sleepers and cable trays for their durability, weather resistance and lowmaintenance costs.
To learn more about Covestro's PU composite applications at the China Composites Expo, visit the company’s booth 7R19 in Hall 7.1 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center(Shanghai) from September 2 to 4, 2024.
About Covestro:
Covestro is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-quality polymer materials and theircomponents. With its innovative products, processes and methods, the company helps enhancesustainability and the quality of life in many areas. Covestro supplies customers around the worldin key industries such as mobility, building and living, as well as the electrical and electronicssector. In addition, polymers from Covestro are also used in sectors such as sports and leisure,telecommunications and health, as well as in the chemical industry itself.
The company is committed to becoming fully circular. In addition, Covestro aims to achieveclimate neutrality for its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2035, and the Group’s Scope 3emissions are also set to be climate neutral by 2050. Covestro generated sales of EUR 14.4billion in fiscal 2023. At the end of 2023, the company had 48 production sites worldwide andemployed approximately 17,500 people (calculated as full-time equivalents).
Find more information at the Covestro Homepage.
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Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual futureresults, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors includethose discussed in Covestro’s public reports, which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.
Source: Covestro
